ED orally disintegrating tablet now available in the U.S.

An orally disintegrating version of the phosphodiesterase type-5 inhibitor vardenafil hydrochloride (Staxyn), a new FDA-approved treatment for erectile dysfunction, is now available in the United States.

The new formulation of vardenafil is a 10-mg orally disintegrating tablet taken once per day. Doses should be taken at least 24 hours apart and approximately 1 hour before sexual activity.

The product was developed to address barriers to the use of medications to treat ED by providing a discreet, effective option for patients, said a spokesperson for GlaxoSmithKline, its manufacturer.

Staxyn is not interchangeable with vardenafil film‐coated tablets (Levitra), according to GlaxoSmithKline, because a 10-mg orally disintegrating tablet provides a higher exposure to the active ingredient in the body compared to a 10-mg film‐coated tablet.

The most common side effects are headache, flushing, stuffy or runny nose, indigestion, upset stomach, dizziness, and back pain.